Whatever time of the year it happens to be, Japan is one of those places that feels different every season – blossoms on spring’s arrival, beautiful colourful leaves come in autumn, or snowy winters – so every trip is really quite different – but there is usually one best time of the year to make this trip for an Australian looking to plan an overseas holiday at some stage.
There are countless choices! Whether you prefer to get lost wandering through the streets of Tokyo, or to visit temples in Kyoto or to stare at Mount Fuji, understanding Japan’s seasons will help you to plan a perfect visit.
Spring in Japan: March to May
Spring: So, you wanna visit Japan? Spring’s the time to do it. It’s spring and the world is cloaked in pink and white.
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. You should get outside and explore these cities on foot, experience the ambiance of ancient temples, and do not miss out on hanami, the cherry blossom viewing phenomenon.
When will it blossom? As it depends on the weather, it varies every year, so keep an eye out! Also, flights and accommodation are likely to be more costly during the busier times of the year, so it’s best to book in advance.
Best for: Cherry blossom, sightseeing, romance, first-timers.
Through the summer: Jun – Aug
Come for summertime festivals; it's also the best season for culture buffs to explore the vibrant streets or even to trip around the mountains and backwoods of Japan.
Remember that the whole country of Japan can be hot and humid in summer. June/early July falls in the rainy season in most parts of Japan, but the intensity of rain varies. August is also a popular time for typhoons.
Wear something breezy when you are here in the summer and stay well hydrated. Also plan to spend some time exploring our indoor attractions such as museums, malls, and aquariums.
Summer festivals, mountains and escape: the summer vacationer who combines school holidays. Do you understand?
Autumn in Japan: September to November
Autumn: If you prefer it to be cooler, cozy, and full of wonderful sights, autumn is the time for you. During this season, the forests, the parks, and the gardens of the temples will be dressed in different colours of autumn - red, orange, and yellow- spectacular, isn’t it?
If you prefer to see the changing colours of the leaves, head to Kyoto and other historic cities to enjoy the beautiful reds and yellows. Many parks and gardens in Tokyo also have lovely displays. Mount Fuji has many picturesque locations.
Autumn leaves can be expected to turn at different times depending on the season and the location. Mountain regions tend to get their colours on display before large cities, where golden days tend to come in late fall.
Top choice for: Photography, seeing the sights and exploring cultures, as well as for nature lovers and good walking weather.
Winter in Japan: December to February
Winter shows a different face of Japan that includes snowy mountain villages and soothing hot springs. You see, Hokkaido’s famous for its epic snowboarding, and Nagano’s even more known for its skiing and those jaw-dropping mountain views.
You definitely need to explore Tokyo and Osaka during the wintertime: Shop until you drop, eat comfort food, and see the seasonal lighting displays. They are quieter during the winter compared to the cherry blossom season, although Christmas, New Year, and ski periods are still popular.
Double-coat in cold months; don’t forget to take warm clothes with you if you are going to the north of Japan, to the mountains.
Best for: Snow, hot springs, winter scenery and seasonal cuisine.
What is the best season for Australians?
It all depends on what sort of holiday you want. Cherry blossom is best in spring—gorgeous foliage in autumn. Festivals are held in summer. If you love the snow, then winter is for you.
Before you book, compare flight prices from your state capital, the cost of accommodation and the weather for your favourite destinations. When planning your holiday, consider Australian school holidays and school breaks and major Japanese holidays, as these can be busy.
Plan for an inter-city travel day if your itinerary includes several destinations.
Final Words
No matter what time of the year you travel to Japan, it is going to be a great experience, but there is no single season that fits all travelers. Consider what you most want to see and do, plan for the weather, and book your peak seasons in advance.
Whether you’re dreaming of visiting the stunning cherry blossoms in Kyoto, exploring the streets of Tokyo, or planning a trip up to Hokkaido for some snow, it’s always better to prepare your Japan travel in advance to make your holiday much easier. Looking for guidebooks for your upcoming Japan trip? EaseOnTrip will help you plan your trip of a lifetime.
Ready to plan your Japan dream packages?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. In which month should we visit Japan? From Australia?
March and April are popular, and autumn viewing in October and November is great. The ideal month for watching depends on your destination and the specific time of year.
2. When is cherry blossom season in Japan?
Most major cities will see cherry blossoms in bloom around March and April, but it depends on the year and location.
3. Is Japan expensive to visit during cherry blossom season?
Of course, flying to Japan during cherry blossom season can be expensive. Flights and accommodation? Very expensive, as it’s the high season. Why not book flights in advance and choose a different date for travelling?
4. Can Australians visit Japan in winter
Yes. When there is snow, it is very good. Hot springs, food, and snow are the best during the winter.
